Open Window Studio
Summer Art & Clay Camp
Celebrate summer at Open Window Studio!
We begin each morning with a relaxed community circle. Campers might share ideas, sketch in their sketchbooks, hear a short story, play a collaborative drawing game, or simply ease into the day. This helps even hesitant children warm up and feel part of the group before we begin projects.
Full-day campers have both a morning and afternoon studio session, with a long lunch and outdoor free time in between to rest, play, and reset. The day ends with a closing circle (and plenty of watermelon!) where students can share their work if they wish — sharing is always encouraged but never required.
During studio time, campers work in small groups so teachers can provide individual help. We actively guide students step-by-step when needed and also make space for independent ideas as confidence grows. As the week progresses and projects develop, groups become more flexible so each child can work at their own pace and follow their interests.
On Friday afternoon families and friends are invited to an art show and celebration where campers proudly share what they have created during the week.
No prior art experience is required. Our camps are designed for both enthusiastic young artists and children who are unsure about art. Every camper leaves with finished artwork and a stronger sense of confidence.
Our camps are a good fit for:
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beginners
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shy children
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creative kids
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kids who “don’t think they are good at art”
- and, of course, those kids who can never stop making art!
We know choosing a camp is a big decision. Here are answers to the questions parents most often ask us.
Does my child need to be good at art?
Not at all. Many campers arrive unsure about art. Teachers provide step-by-step help and adjust projects so every child can succeed.
Are kids grouped by age?
Yes. Campers are grouped by age and supported individually within the group.
What should my child bring?
A lunch, water bottle, and clothes that can get messy. We provide all art materials.
Will my child bring projects home?
Yes. Campers complete multiple projects during the week and share them at our Friday art show.
My child is shy — will this work?
Yes. We gently help children get started and never force sharing or participation before they are comfortable.
Clay
In clay camps, students discover how to turn ideas into real objects they can hold in their hands.
Campers learn handbuilding skills step-by-step: rolling coils, making slabs, shaping forms, attaching pieces, adding texture, and using underglaze color. Projects may include animals, monsters, mugs, bowls, vases, flowers, or completely original creations.
We demonstrate each technique and then help each camper adapt it to their own idea. Some children carefully plan; others experiment — both approaches are supported. Our goal is for every child to experience success while still making work that feels personal.
By the end of the week, campers understand how clay works and are proud of the pieces they created themselves. Finished pieces are kiln-fired and ready for pickup a few weeks after camp.
Paint & Mixed Media
This camp is ideal for kids who like variety and imagination.
Campers paint imaginary worlds, animals, and colorful abstract compositions using watercolor, tempera, and acrylic. We also explore collage, pastel, sculpture, natural materials, and simple bookmaking. Campers may build fairy houses, create characters, or invent their own projects.
Teachers demonstrate techniques in manageable steps so children who feel “not good at art” quickly gain confidence, while experienced artists are encouraged to expand their ideas and take creative risks.
Campers work at their own level, receive individual help, and leave the week with multiple finished projects they are excited to bring home.
Wonderful summer camp! My daughter attended for one week and had the best time doing clay pottery and painting. The camp is held in a studio in a beautiful farm property in Longmont with a playground, zip line, and animals (dogs and horses) for the kids to say hello to. Page and her team have been great to work with and we will definitely consider this summer camp again! Thank you, Open Window Studio! – J.R.
